God Bless America

Last night I went to the Fourth of July celebration at Ft. Jackson Army Base. It was great- from the music to the flags to the fireworks. It reminded my why the Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays- I am very glad to be an American.

As I listened to the music last night I couldn’t help but notice how many of our patriotic songs mention God. Typically they mention God in a vague, unspecific sense that anyone could agree with- no matter which God they worship. Since our culture is mainly a Judeo-Christian society, the God to which they refer is a monotheistic God- which makes this an example of Christ of Culture because of its (theologically) low doctrine of God. Sure, they use the word “God” but we don’t know much about the God to which they refer- it could be anyone’s God.

As I heard “God Bless America” for the umpteenth time, even though it was an example of the Agreement perspective, I though to myself, “That’s right: I hope God will bless our nation.” I started to think about how many people might cringe at the song, thinking it was a manifestation of the religious right taking over our country- another example of Christ of Culture.

That reminded me about one of the best things about the United States- that we can agree to disagree. I am proud every time I see someone protesting something- even if its something I agree with. I think it’s great that we can argue openly and freely. This even goes in to the religious sphere for me. I am very particular when it comes to the worship of God, but I am very glad that we have a nation where we can agree to disagree about religion- where difference generate arguments not blood. This is an example of Christ and Culture in Paradox because it separates my faith in God from the culture in which I live- and I end up tolerating differences in belief because it a necessary evil.